Division of Transplantation

Information for Transplant Recipients

Routine Self Checks

There are several self checks that you must do everyday to help your doctors evaluate the function of your new kidney.

Temperature

Take your temperature two (2) times a day:

In the early morning on rising

Late in the afternoon around 6 p.m. or...

Whenever you feel as if you have a fever.

After one (1) month, take your temperature only if you do not feel well. If your temperature is 100° F. or higher for two (2) readings call the Transplant Nurse Practitioner. It may be an unrelated problem such as a cold or flu or it may be a sign of organ rejection.

Blood Pressure

High blood pressure (Hypertension) is not uncommon following transplant. Before leaving the hospital you will be taught to monitor your blood pressure at home. You should monitor your blood pressure twice a day at home and note the time of day when it is checked.

Prolonged hypertension can be harmful to the kidney so it is important that you notify the transplant team if your blood pressure is high (or low) at home. It is a good idea to bring your home blood pressure record with you when you come to see the doctor. Limiting your salt intake, along with regular exercise and weight control will help keep your blood pressure controlled.

Diet and exercise alone may not be enough to keep your blood pressure controlled and you may need to take medication. It is important that these medications be taken as prescribed and your blood pressure checked regularly.

If you have high blood pressure and medication was prescribed, please take your blood pressure before each dose. Continue to take your blood pressure as instructed by your doctor.

If your blood pressure is low, do not take your blood pressure medication. If you must hold your medication for more than one (1) day or four (4) doses, call the Transplant Nurse Practitioner.

If your blood pressure is high, take your medication and call the transplant Nurse Practitioner.

Heart Rate

Take your heart rate two (2) times a day as taught. If you are taking a blood pressure medication which also decreases your heart rate, take your heart rate and blood pressure before each dose. If your heart rate is less than 60, do not take the medication. If your heart rate remains less than 60 for one (1) whole day or two (2) doses, call the Transplant Coordinator. Continue to check your heart rate for one (1) month. Your doctor will tell you if you need to take your heart rate for more than one (1) month.